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When you've decided to go with customized cooling and heating, a top-notch zoning system is critical. Determining which rooms to include in each zone will allow you to have more control and flexibility. Installing a programmable thermostat in each zone will also help you keep your utility costs down.

Your heating and cooling contractor will take into account the following five factors when he implements your home zoning system design:

1. Multiple levels - If your home has two or more floors, no zone should encompass more than one level. Because heat rises, any zone that has more than one level will not be able to achieve a uniform temperature.
2. Construction types - If your home has an addition or an area that's different in construction from your main living area, that space should have its own zone. The other area probably has more or less insulation and other factors that make its cooling and heating load different from your main living area.
3. Location and layout - Zones should not include both interior and exterior rooms. In this situation, as well, insulation may be a factor, along with solar heat gain through windows.
4. Thermostat location - Your contractor should put the thermostat for each zone in the room where you and your family are likely to spend the most time. Because your heating and cooling system will run until the thermostat temperature is reached, it makes sense to put the thermostats in the rooms you occupy most.
5. Airflow - Each zone should have its own supply and return registers to ensure optimal airflow throughout your entire home.

The most important metric to understand is the heating and cooling load of each room. Areas with similar loads should be grouped in the same zone to maximize energy efficiency and home comfort. Your contractor will use sophisticated methods to calculate these loads, but he should also work with you to determine your home comfort preferences and daily habits.

If you need help with zoning system design or any other home comfort issue, call the pros at Apollo Home Heating, Cooling and Plumbing in Cincinnati. We recommend starting with a home performance evaluation to assess sources of energy loss and areas for improvement. Based on the results, our trained professionals can help you optimize your home comfort system and save money.

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